Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has explained why he was absent at the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the newly installed 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Atiku, accompanied by ADC coalition leaders including former PDP National Chairman Iyorcha Ayu, ex-Governors Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna) and Liyel Imoke (Cross River), visited the monarch at his Ibadan residence on Tuesday.
He clarified that his absence was due to protocol arrangements and not a deliberate decision.
“We regretted that we didn’t attend the coronation. It was not intentional. Protocol arrangements did not allow us to come during the coronation,” Atiku said, while congratulating the monarch.
The coronation, held last Friday, was attended by President Bola Tinubu and other high-profile dignitaries.
In his response, Oba Ladoja stated that he had left partisan politics behind, stressing that his new role demanded neutrality.
“I’m not a politician anymore. I am for everybody now,” the Olubadan said, pledging to serve Ibadan, Oyo State, Africa, and the world with justice and fairness.
The monarch also recalled his long-standing political ties with Atiku, including their time together in the SDP, PDP, and Accord Party, but emphasised his focus now was entirely on his traditional duties.
